Green Iguana
The Green Iguana is found over a large geographic area, from Mexico to Southern Brazil
and Paraguay, as well as on the Caribbean Islands. Iguanas live in tropical rainforest
areas, generally in lower altitudes in areas near water sources, such as rivers or
streams. They spend most of their time high in the forest canopy, about 40-50 feet above
the ground. Like many tropical species, the Green Iguana is also threatened by habitat
destruction. The Green Iguana is also a victim of the pet industry. Adult Iguanas range in
size from four to six feet in length. In their natural range, these lizards are hunted as a
source of food. Large females are the favourite individuals to harvest for meat.
Unfortunately, these same individuals are critical to the reproductive success of the
species. As a food source, the Green Iguana is also known as the "Bamboo Chicken".
Iguanas store large amounts of fat in their lower jaw and neck area in order to survive
times of famine. The pouch at the base of their neck is called a dewlap, and is used in
display.
